Ecological Mitigation Schemes

When all the ecology surveys are complete and the impacts of a development have been assessed, detailed ecological mitigation proposals can be drawn up. These mitigation proposals are designed to offset the negative effects of a development on wildlife.

In its broadest sense mitigation includes avoidance, mitigation measures and compensation plans.

Avoidance is often the most cost-effective way to mitigate eg, by adjusting the layout of a scheme in areas of high nature conservation value or by altering timings of works so that the site is left undisturbed during sensitive times, such as the breeding season.

Mitigation measures are measures taken to reduce adverse impacts eg, by using pollution interceptors to minimize pollution of watercourses, screens to reduce visual disturbance to birds, tunnels under roads to allow wildlife to pass from one side to the other and so on.

Compensation plans offset the damage to wildlife caused by a development where avoidance and mitigation measures are not possible or sufficient eg, the creation of new habitat or enhancement of existing habitat.

Mitigation schemes need to:
•    Comply with current wildlife legislation and planning policy
•    Comply with best practice guidelines produced by Natural England and others
•    Meet the requirements of the Local Planning Authority

They should also enhance biodiversity on a site and help to allay any local concerns about the proposed development.

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